Sharing Assessment Data: An Example from a National Professional Association.

Bradley, Jama L.; And Others

Alexander Astin, a pioneer in assessment research, has argued persuasively for building national databases that would permit programs and institutions to share common data and thus compare themselves with peers (1987, 1991). Others have suggested that certain process and outcome data should be collected and shared by disciplinary associations and professional organizations. This paper illustrates the attempt by one association to develop a common methodology for gathering formative and summative evaluation data from students, thus making comparative information available to member institutions for use in assessing and improving the quality of their programs. The National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association has developed a system for gathering and disseminating assessment data for use by institutions across the country. A survey instrument and a national data bank of survey results make it possible to assess the value and quality of campus recreation programs. In 1990, the following five pilot institutions began the data bank: (1) the University of California at Los Angeles; (2) Oregon State University (Corvallis); (3) Bowling Green State University (Ohio); (4) Vincennes University (Indiana); (5) Vanderbilt University in Nashville (Tennessee); and (6) the University of Tennessee (Knoxville). Responses from over 2,500 students began the data bank. One chart and two tables contain study findings, and there is a 26-item list of references. (Author/SLD)